History of the Fund

Portlanders responded to Nathan’s death by comforting each other, remembering
Nathan and helping his family, and searching for ways to improve the Portland
community. They held meetings and a candlelight vigil at Laurelhurst Park, in
Nathan’s neighborhood. Those early discussions led to formation of the Nathan
McMurry Thomas Fund.

The Community Unity Concert, a day of music for Portlanders, was held in
Laurelhurst Park in Nathan’s memory. Private donations and volunteer work
created a new soccer field in Laurelhurst Park Annex. Now called the “Nathan
Thomas Field”, it is actively used for practices and small-sided games. Proceeds
from a memorial soccer tournament and individual donations allow the fund to
continue to support projects and activities in Nathan’s memory.

Projects Supported by the Fund

Soccer Outreach

Nathan loved soccer and, by going to his games, his family became connected to other families and involved in the community. The fund has supported struggling soccer clubs in Portland neighborhoods, purchased soccer goals for schools and community centers and helped new recreational soccer teams.

Literacy Programs

Nathan was an avid reader and bedtime stories were a family routine. The fund has supported additions to school libraries, early reading classes and literacy programs for families with English as a Second Language.

Improvements in Schools and Parks

Nathan was a good student and athlete and had many friends. The fund has supported playgrounds, gardens and other improvements in schools and parks that provide environments for enrichment and community activities.

Nathan liked to learn and compete academically and probably would have gone to college. Since he did not get that chance, scholarships in his memory have been given to high school seniors from traditional and alternative public schools to help them achieve their college goals.

Help for At-Risk Children and Families

The young man who took Nathan hostage had a long history of school problems and juvenile delinquency. The fund has supported special programs for children with mental illnesses, difficult social situations and others who need extra encouragement to succeed in school and to feel a valued part of the community.

Excellence in the Portland Police Bureau

Portland Police Officers wanted to rescue Nathan, not to harm him. Nathan’s
death emphasized the importance of an excellent Police Bureau to all Portlanders.
The Nathan Thomas Memorial Award is given annually by the Chief’s Forum to
recognize outstanding performance by a member of the Portland Police Bureau.

Contribute to the fund

The fund welcomes suggestions for other projects related to its mission. For
further information regarding requests for funding or donations contact:

Nathan McMurry Thomas Fund

825 NE Hazelfern Place

Portland,
OR97232

The Nathan McMurry Thomas Fund, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Donations to the fund are tax-deductible.